Council Member Josh Blevins introduced a proposal at the Dec. 30 study session to adopt a senior property tax freeze that would protect eligible homeowners from increases in property tax liability.

Blevins said the city currently has 764 residents enrolled in property tax relief and that the proposed freeze would allow any qualifying senior to apply and have their taxes frozen going forward. "It's a good deal for seniors. It protects our seniors," Blevins said. He described two possible income-cap options for the freeze and said it would be structured so eligible residents must submit an annual application to the trustee's office with a copy of the prior year’s tax return and proof of identity.

Blevins told the council he consulted with county officials and officials from Putnam and DeKalb counties that have adopted similar programs and that he intends to invite county staff (Tanya and Rhonda) to attend next month’s study session to provide input before the item returns as a potential ordinance. He said the city’s comptroller data shows 7,458 seniors in Bedford County and emphasized the proposal could reach many more residents than the existing relief program.

Treasurer Kate Park noted the state tax-relief payment this year is $75 and the city matches that amount; she also said disabled veterans’ tax relief this year totaled $403. Blevins and staff emphasized that the veterans’ annual relief program is set by the state and that the freeze option is not interchangeable with the constitutional veteran relief provisions.

Council did not vote on the proposal; staff will coordinate with county representatives and circulate details for future ordinance consideration.